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Biola University and California Lutheran University are both private nonprofit institutions — Biola University in La Mirada, CA and California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, CA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
La Mirada, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 74.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,474
Tuition: $48,984/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 67.6%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Health professions, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in La Mirada, CA with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Health professions.
Thousand Oaks, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 75.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,296
Tuition: $52,560/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 69.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Psychology, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Thousand Oaks, CA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Psychology.
| Factor | Biola University | California Lutheran University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 74.4% | 75.7% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1160–1370 |
| 1150–1330 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24–29 | 24–31 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 3,474 | 2,296 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $48,984/year | $52,560/year |
| Average net price after aid | $31,495 | $30,109 |
| Graduation rate | 67.6% | 69.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $56,778 | $68,712 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 15.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | La Mirada, CA | Thousand Oaks, CA |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Health professions, Business and marketing | Business and marketing, Psychology, Social sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (74.4% vs 75.7%). California Lutheran University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($30,109 vs $31,495). California Lutheran University reports the higher graduation rate (69.6% vs 67.6%). Biola University is the larger undergraduate campus (3,474 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Biola University and California Lutheran University
Biola University has an acceptance rate of 74.4%; California Lutheran University is around 75.7%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Biola University tuition is $48,984/year. California Lutheran University is $52,560/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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